Five people arrested following 'deliberate' fire in Reigate

Police officers broke into a property in the early hours of Monday to ensure no-one was inside

Five people have been arrested on suspicion of arson following a fire in Reigate over the weekend.

Police are investigating the blaze, which happened at an address in Alexander Road in the South Park area of the town at around 1am on Sunday (May 18).

A garden shed was destroyed and two windows and guttering on the detached property were also damaged. There was internal smoke damage as a result of the fire.

Firefighters attended the blaze and managed to prevent it from spreading further.

The house was unoccupied at the time of the fire and no-one was hurt.

Police believe it was started deliberately and five people have been arrested in connection with the incident.

A 16-year-old girl, 19-year-old man, 21-year-old man and 18-year-old man have all been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of use of a motor vehicle on a road/public place without third party insurance, aggravated vehicle taking and dangerous driving, and arson with intent. All five are believed to be from the local area.

Reigate and Banstead Neighbourhood Sergeant Simon Ward said: "Local police officers were first on the scene and with an aim to ensure that there was no-one at risk in the house they forced entry into the property to conduct a search - thankfully, the occupants were out at the time of the incident.

"Officers also gained entry to the car on the driveway and moved it away from the scene to ensure it was not fire damaged.

"Local officers will be continuing to patrol the area and engage with the local residents to provide reassurance and guidance."

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference 45140040239, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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She has been editorial director of the online and print titles in Surrey and north-east Hampshire since 2007. Marnie previously worked at the BBC as a producer for 5 Live, having moved to national radio from BBC Sussex and Surrey.